Visit Edenton for its Southern heritage, charm and hospitality

Daily Press (Newport News, Va.) (MCT) - Quaint ... friendly ... charming. They are all words that suit the Southern hospitality you find along the streets of Edenton.

Located on the Albemarle Sound's Edenton Bay, the village of Edenton is a 1712 town that features three centuries of historic architecture behind tree-lined sidewalks and waterfront vistas. Many structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and two sites _ the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse and Cupola House _ are National Historic Landmarks.

Edenton is also known for its delightful downtown atmosphere _ unique shops, eateries, cultural events and waterfront adventures.

Edenton offers a refreshing escape for anyone who likes lovely old homes, towering trees and peaceful relaxation.

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BEST EVENTS

Dec. 12-13. Christmas Candlelight Tour, private homes decorated for the holidays. $25 admission for self-guided tour. www.edentonhistoricalcommission.org

Dec. 13. Annual Christmas Parade.

April 2009. Edenton Pilgrimage, tour of 10 private historic homes, churches and special events. $25 admission.

Info: Edenton-Chowan County Tourism Development Authority at 800-775-0111or 252-482-3400

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10 THINGS TO DO

Trolley Tours. A 45-minute ride takes you past historic homes and buildings.

Rocky Hock Playhouse. "Under His Wing: The Love Story of Ruth and Boaz" now-Aug. 16; gospel jubilee and dinner theater through Oct. 18; and "Star Over Bethlehem" Nov. 8-Dec. 20. www.rockyhockplayhouse.com or 252-482-4621.

Canoe Trails Launch. Mapped 10-county area featuring five designated trails through scenic creeks and streams.

Harbor and Colonial Park. Protected harbor with nine transient boat slips, restroom, shower facility, kayak rentals and playground.

Cotton Mill Village and Boardwalk. Stroll the walkway behind the historic mill complex and also see the restored residential cottages cited in Cottage Living magazine; site also included on the town's trolley tours.

Chowan Arts Council. Gallery exhibits of fine artists, gallery shop and a century of Chowan through photographs.

Taylor Movie Theatre. Matinees and evening performances.

Barker House. Museum and bookstore. Rock on the porch where you can enjoy a waterfront view and beverage.

Cupola House. Built in 1758, the home features gardens restored from a 1759 Sauthier Map of Edenton.

Music, shopping and more. Local restaurants become venues for weekend entertainment; boutiques and antique shops provide shopping. There's also golf, fishing, sailing, paddling, camping, birding, waterfront parties, regattas, festivals, art events, historic gardens and more. Old-fashioned ice cream at Blount's Pharmacy.

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5 PLACES TO EAT

Albemarle Plantation. 1 Plantation Drive, Hertford, fine dining overlooking golf course and Albemarle Sound. 252-426-2252.

Nixon Family Restaurant. 327 River Road, seafood, oyster bar, daily buffet. 252-221-2244.

Sean's Market & Restaurant. 309 St. Broad St., gourmet market, deli, full restaurant. 252-482-8002.

The Chicken Kitchen. 809 N. Broad St., homestyle-fried chicken, veggies, seafood. 252-482-4721.

Find all your stocking stuffers and Christmas gifts at Catholic Online Shopping

Watermen's Grille. 427 S. Broad St., casual seafood restaurant, dinner only. 252-482-7733.

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5 PLACES TO STAY

Belvidere Bed and Breakfast. 316 Blue Heron Landing, waterfront inn with view of Albemarle Sound. www.belviderebandb.com or 252-482-1622.

Captain's Quarters Inn. 202 W. Queen St., 1907-circa inn with private baths, one block from downtown, three blocks from water, dinner packages. www.captainsquartersinn.com or 800-482-8945.

Granville Queen Inn. 108 S. Granville St., 1907-circa home with breakfast on plantation porch or dining room. www.granvillequeen.com or 866-482-8534.

Mulberry Hill Plantation. Soundside Road, renovated 18th-century home on the golf course at Mulberry Hill Plantation, situated on seven acres of waterfront land. 252-333-7868.

Trestle House Inn. 632 Soundside Road, bed-and-breakfast surrounded on three sides by water on a wildlife refuge. Gourmet breakfast, canoeing/kayaking, fishing/boating, biking/hiking and horseback riding. www.trestlehouseinn.com or 800-645-8466.

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ONLINE:

Visit www.visitedenton.com for a virtual tour and more information on Edenton, N.C.

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© 2008, Daily Press (Newport News, Va.).